PROPOSED STUDY: The distribution of an exotic and native species of Gecko on Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada

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Presenter(s)

Ashley Martinovich, Ashlee Ducharme

Abstract or Description

In the Southwestern US, exotic species are of significant concern to wildlife management. The exotic gecko Cyrtopodion scabrum, also known as the bowfoot gecko, was first detected in Nevada in 2015. Subsequently, Cyrtopodion scabrum has been found in other Southwestern states, yet Cyrtopodion scabrum and their effects on native geckos in the Southwest have not been studied. This research proposal studies the potential impacts of Cyrtopodion scabrum on the native western banded gecko, Coleonyx variegatus, on Nellis Air Force Base (NAFB). With predesignated transects, we will conduct population surveys and collect body metrics of these two species. Using spatial analyst tools, we will analyze the geographic distribution of each species on NAFB, and if the species numbers differ in urban and non-urban areas. We expect to see exotic geckos pushing out the native geckos on natural landscapes. This study could inform management decisions regarding Cyrtopodion scabrum regarding its effect on Coleonyx variegatus.

Mentor

Nate Gwinn